Tata Motors plans to execute all these orders in 2016-17. The orders will definitely enable us to further strengthen our leadership position in the CV passenger space.

According to the company, this is an 80 percent increase in orders compared to last year. This sudden surge in orders from STUs (State Transport Undertakings) comes after four years according to the brand, and indicates the government’s increase in focus towards improving public transport in India.

This move is a good sign especially considering the number of old buses the STUs run across the length and breadth of India. Moreover, the new buses will also have passed higher safety standards. Some of the orders require the buses to be “fully IT enabled” and will feature public information systems, CCTV cameras, WiFi and on-board diagnostics.

According to Mr. Sandeep Kumar, Business Head (Commercial Vehicles – Passenger), Tata Motors, the company has nearly doubled its orderbook in 2016-17 already and is adequately prepared to cater to the current and future demand for its buses.